SMART Notebook — Session 3

According to Barber et al. (2007), SMART Notebook is a software that allows the user to create presentations across several slides that can then be shown using an interactive whiteboard. However, unlike PowerPoint, when using SMART Notebook, the contents can be resized, rotated, and moved around during the presentation.

During this lesson I was introduced to SMART Notebook, learning the basics needed to create a presentation.

SMART Notebook across the curriculum

Russell (2010) suggests that ICT is an exciting subject which nearly every pupil will take to it with enthusiasm. Smart Notebook is not limited to IT lessons, it can be used across the whole curriculum to create presentations which are exciting and engaging, helping to build positive attitudes towards learning.

Below are some examples of the features I tested when first using the software:

Shapes — I used this tool to decorate the page, moving the shapes around and changing their size.

Erase and Reveal — I created this by writing an answer and covering it using the pen tool, making sure that the pen was the same colour as the background. This technique can be used in class to allow students to answer a question before coming up to the board and using the eraser to reveal if they were correct.

Animations — These can be added to shapes, text and more to allow them to move in, out or across the screen with just a tap. In this instance, the animations were used to ‘fade out’ shapes to reveal the photo underneath. Students can come up to the board one by one and tap a square to make it disappear and reveal part of the photo. Squares can keep being removed until someone has guess what the photo is of correctly.

Reordering — The order of the shapes was arranged so that the green shapes are in front of the box and the red are behind. Pupils can drag the shapes towards the box, however they will only ‘go into the box’ if they are correct.

Magic Pen — This can be used to create a ‘spotlight’ on the page. It can be dragged round the page to show different sections. This could be used in class when comparing two objects.

These are just a few of the features the software has, there a wide range of elements that can be used to create presentations. Levy (2002) stated that children used the terms ‘fun’ and ‘exciting’ when describing interactive whiteboards. Lessons that used them also saw pupil’s behaviour and concentration improve. Having become familiar in the ease of using SMART Notebook as well as hearing about the positive effects that interactive presentations can have on lessons, I look forward be using this software throughout my teaching career!

Reference List

Levy, P. (2002). Interactive Whiteboards in Learning and Teaching in Two Sheffield Schools: A Developmental Study. Department of Information Studies: University of Sheffield.

Scoffham, S. and Russell, K. (2010). Primary Geography Handbook. Sheffield: Geographical Assoc.

Barber, D, Cooper, L and Meeson, G. (2007). Learning and Teaching with Interactive Whiteboards: Sheffield: Primary and Early Years Learning Matters Ltd